Media Home
UN Web TV
UN Audiovisual Library
UN PhotoSecurity Council
The situation in the Middle East - Security Council, 10153rd meeting
A nuclear disaster with potentially harrowing human and environmental impacts was narrowly averted this week in the United Arab Emirates, as Iranian drones struck a functioning nuclear power plant, the senior UN nuclear safety official told an emergency meeting of the Security Council today.
Rafael Mariano Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), outlined the “gravely concerning” drone attacks on the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant on 17 May. Emphasizing the serious risks posed by such an attack — and the close call just experienced — he said that, to date, nuclear radiation levels remain normal and no injuries were reported.
While the strike resulted in a localized fire and emergency diesel generators were briefly needed to provide power to parts of the Barakah facility, off-site power has now been restored. IAEA is in close contact with senior Emirati officials and leaders across the region, many of whom have voiced their grave concern.
- Briefer: Mr. Rafael Mariano Grossi, Director General, International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) (via video-teleconference)
- Statements: All Council members, with the Democratic Republic of the Congo speaking on behalf of: the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Liberia, Somalia
- Statement: United Arab Emirates
